Is Your Dog’s Spleen in Trouble? Here’s What You Need to Know
Featured in Houston Pet Talk, March 2024 issue
By Dr. Noaker
Imagine that your veterinarian just informed you that your dog has a big spleen. You knew something was wrong, but the spleen? There’s a disconnect in your brain. You’ve heard of the spleen, but what does it do, and why is it big? An abdominal ultrasound is ordered, and now, wringing your hands with worry, you await the results.
The ultrasound images show "areas of an infiltrate of some sort and masses extending beyond the capsule of the spleen," plus more words you cannot comprehend at the time. Chest x-rays and an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart) are ordered to check for metastasis or a spread of any tumors beyond the spleen.
As you struggle to stay upright, an exploratory abdominal surgery is recommended to remove the spleen, as long as there is no metastasis. You try to remain calm, but your mouth is as dry as the desert. You give your consent for the surgery, not really processing all the information, and the waiting begins. You hope and pray for the best news possible.
What Does the Spleen Do?
The spleen is located in the abdomen and helps the body fight infections. It also stores red blood cells while filtering and removing old red blood cells. (Fun Fact: the iron from these old cells is saved and recycled by the spleen!) Despite these important functions, our pets can live healthy lives after a splenectomy, the removal of the spleen, because other organs share similar responsibilities.
Why Are Most Spleens Removed?
Most spleens are removed due to the growth of a tumor. In dogs, about fifty percent of spleen masses are benign (non-cancerous), but veterinarians cannot determine the tumor type just by looking at it. The only way to positively identify the type of mass is through a biopsy of the entire organ once it is removed. This is a crucial step to determining the next best course of action for your pet.
What Are the Symptoms of Spleen Problems in Pets?
If your pet is experiencing spleen issues, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms: loss of appetite, lethargy, pale gums, bruising, enlarged abdomen, panting, weakness, and/or collapse.
Why Is Immediate Treatment Necessary?
Do not hesitate in seeking treatment for two reasons. First, due to the spleen’s vascular nature, any bleeding can quickly escalate to life-threatening blood loss. Second, if your pet has a malignant tumor, catching it early means the spleen can be removed before tumors spread to other parts of the body. You’ll then have time to consult with a veterinary oncologist or your family veterinarian for further care.
We’re Here for You and Your Pet
We know the stress of waiting, worrying, and loving your pet so much that it’s hard to breathe when they’re sick or injured. VERGI 24/7 is always open for you and your pets, and we are honored to be the hospital you choose to care for your pets when they need us most.
